PPEM Seminar Series: Dr. Kerik Cox (Cornell University, Geneva)

Abstract: The talk will focus on the journey of evaluating the potential of germicidal light (UV-C) as a management tool for bacterial and fungal diseases in apples. The work will encompass overview of the UV radiance technology, impacts on fungal and bacterial pathogens in the lab, its potential use in the field to manage pre- and post-harvest disease, and impacts or lack thereof on apple trees and agrichemical residues from season long use.

Bio: Dr. Kerik Cox (kdc33@cornell.edu) is a Professor of Plant Pathology and Program Leader for the Cornell AgriTech Section of Plant Pathology and Plant Microbe Biology in Geneva NY. He manages a program of tree fruit and berry research, extension, teaching, and administration at Cornell AgriTech.

Principal research efforts include applied disease management for apples and small fruit with a focus on alternative management practices: germicidal light, biopesticides, planting systems, covered environment agricultures, disease forecasting, and organic/GRAS solutions. A considerable proportion of my efforts are concerned with practical or field antimicrobial resistance to agricultural fungicides and antibiotics. Extension efforts focus on (bio)pesticide education, antimicrobial resistance, disease forecasting, and applied disease management with emphasis on apples and controlled environment production in small fruit. Teaching efforts include undergraduate and graduate level Plant Pathology and IPM courses as well as faculty leadership.